Auckland FC is pleased to announce the launch of its Women’s Talent Development Centre.
Starting early next month (September), the Women’s Talent Development Centre (WTDC) will work with local partner clubs to develop and nurture future talent. It will offer weekly training sessions, development matches, and workshops focused on both personal and professional growth.
A predominantly female coaching and support staff will lead the programme, with a strong emphasis on fostering leadership and expertise among women in football.
Initially focused on players born between 2008 and 2010, the WTDC will align with the international calendar to prepare players for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The programme will then expand to include players born 2006–2010, providing a development platform aimed at future participation in both the 2026 FIFA U-17 and FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cups.
“This is about ensuring young women in Auckland have access to high-performance development environments with clear pathways forward, whether that’s here at Auckland FC or overseas,” said Terry McFlynn, Auckland FC’s Director of Football.
“This programme will act as a pathway for these players to develop and prepare for opportunities to be part of Auckland FC’s future participation in the New Zealand National League and A-League Women’s competitions.”
In addition to technical football development, the programme will provide holistic support in key areas such as strength and conditioning, performance analysis, nutrition, wellbeing, psychology, and individual development planning.
Beyond the Talent Development Centre, Auckland FC will roll out a series of women’s football initiatives, including a new women’s football festival and an ambassador programme to celebrate and promote the women’s game in the community.
The Centre has been designed to complement the efforts of Talent Development Pathways (TDP) clubs across Auckland, Northland, and WAIBOP.
“The TDP clubs do a fantastic job, and our role is to support and enhance what they’re already delivering,” McFlynn added. “This hybrid model allows Auckland FC to power the next generation of female footballers while keeping talent grounded in their communities.”
Further expansion into additional age groups, along with research on female-specific injuries and pathway programmes, is also being planned to underpin Auckland FC’s long-term involvement in domestic and international women’s competitions.
With the current delay in launching an A-Leagues Women’s team, Auckland FC remains committed to working alongside local clubs, New Zealand Football, and Football Australia to bridge the gap with new pathways and development opportunities for women in football.
